When you think of the word detox, you are probably going to think of a detox to your diet or lifestyle. However, a detox isn’t just about diet: it’s about reducing toxic ingredients in all areas of your life.
The idea of a beauty detox is much the same as any other form of detox. You are taking a break from anything that not only can be seen as unnecessary in your life but also that could be harmful in some ways too.
Instead, you focus on things that are going to have a healthy impact on your body and your mind, helping to improve how you feel both inside and out.
Whether you’re taking a short break from certain products, or willing to make permanent changes, follow these three steps to have an effective beauty detox.
Learn to read the label
There is a good chance that you may not have even thought about the type of things that are in your favourite beauty products, so the first step in any beauty detox is to learn what they do actually contain. The best way to do this is to read the label.
The main ingredient is likely to be water, but after that, among the list of beneficial ingredients, you might come across harsher ingredients, such as parabens, phthalates and sulphates. It is thought that these can interfere with the hormones within the body, and even cause disease. To avoid them, opt for products clearly named paraben or phthalates-free.
Another thing to watch out for is synthetic perfumes and fragrances. These can be irritating and even cause allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin. Therefore, if you want to detox your beauty routine, choose products scented with natural essential oils, or perhaps go completely scent-free.
Decide what has to go
Once you have identified what your beauty products contain, then you need to identify which ones are going to have to face the chop within your detox.
It is not about taking everything harmful out of our lives, as this can be next to impossible to do. It is more about being aware of what things we do use, what they contain and how we can cut down on them. Being able to make even a few swaps on our beauty products can have a big benefit.
If you’re looking to make permanent changes in your beauty routine, then remember that there will be trial and error. Be patient with yourself.
Go more natural
When it comes to your beauty products, it is always best to try and aim for those that are either organic or natural/naturally derived in their design and ingredient list. This means that they are going to be a good part of your detox and also will be better for your skin too.
We suggest:
Choose organic facial moisturiser or botanical facial oil. Skincare products that are labelled as ‘organic’ will contain only those ingredients that are approved to be used in organic skincare. For example, it must contain eco or natural preservatives only.
Replace your shower gel /shaving cream with a natural soap bar. Gels contain a lot of unnecessary and harsh ingredients compared to 100% natural bars of soap. Moreover, a good bar of soap will be non-drying and nourishing.
The same applies to your facial wash. Opt for a facial cleansing soap bar or use oil & reusable cotton/bamboo pads to remove the makeup.
Replace those synthetic bath bubbles with natural & botanical bath salts. Many of us are deficient in magnesium and one of the best ways to absorb it is via the skin. Epsom Salts as well as Dead Sea Salts are a mix of magnesium, calcium, sodium, and potassium which help to hydrate, encourage natural skin healing and calm irritated skin.
Finally, you could always think about whether or not it is going to be possible for you to make any of the products that you use yourself.
There are lots of great recipes and guides out there that show you how you can make effective beauty products at home using ingredients that you have (or can easily buy).
If you do have time to make these products, then you will not only have the satisfaction of being able to make them for yourself. But you will also know exactly what your beauty products contain, and you can trust that they fit in with your beauty detox.
Deciding to do a beauty detox is a big decision. However, it can be a great choice for you, whether you decide to do it in the short or long term.
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